Teacher Assistant at a School for Special Needs

Blue Jay Academy; DeLand (FL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay based on experience

Paid time off (PTO) and holidays

Discounted childcare

401(k) options

Ongoing leadership development

Job summary

Blue Jay Academy in Florida is seeking a Teacher Assistant to support the classroom team for students with special needs. You will assist with daily activities, supervision, and curriculum delivery to create a safe, engaging learning environment.

The role emphasizes collaboration with the lead teacher and ongoing family communication. The ideal candidate brings a passion for working with children, dependability, and a cooperative mindset.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• Minimum 1–2 years of teaching experience
• Ability to pass a background check and complete ongoing professional development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with children, families, and team members.
• Must be at least 18 years of age

Responsibilities

• Help create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment for all children
• Support daily activities and curriculum implementation alongside the lead teacher
• Always provide active supervision, ensuring safety and compliance with required ratios
• Support children’s development through positive guidance, interaction, and play
• Assist with classroom routines, organization, and communication with families, while supporting overall school operations

Skills

Patience

Team player

Adaptability

Communication skills

Willingness to learn

Dependable

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Teacher Assistant at a School for Special Needs

Who Are We?

Blue Jay Academy is a private school for children with special needs and disabilities from grades K through 12. Serving Volusia County special needs students, Blue Jay Academy is a progressive school for children who struggle with any type of disability or special need. We work with children that have various special needs, including ADHD, Autism and Processing Deficits.

At Blue Jay Academy we provide a high-quality, friendly and caring environment with therapy in order to increase the academic and behavioral abilities of our students. Our dedicated, child centered program is the most important factor in providing the best services and education to our students.

ABOUT THE ROLE

In this role, you’ll support the classroom team in creating a safe, engaging environment where children can learn and grow. You’ll assist with daily activities, provide active supervision, and help bring the curriculum to life while ensuring a smooth, positive classroom experience.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Help create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment for all children
• Support daily activities and curriculum implementation alongside the lead teacher
• Always provide active supervision, ensuring safety and compliance with required ratios
• Support children’s development through positive guidance, interaction, and play
• Assist with classroom routines, organization, and communication with families, while supporting overall school operations

Each day is an opportunity to make a positive impact on a child’s growth and early learning experience.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We’re seeking dependable, positive individuals who enjoy working with children and contributing to a supportive team environment.

You’ll be a great fit if you:

• Have a passion for working with young children
• Bring a positive, patient, and supportive approach
• Are dependable and show up ready to contribute each day
• Work well as part of a collaborative team
• Are open to learning, feedback, and growth
• Adapt well in a fast-paced classroom environment

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• Minimum 1–2 years of teaching experience
• Ability to pass a background check and complete ongoing professional development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with children, families, and team members.
• Must be at least 18 years of age

WHAT YOU’LL GET

• Competitive pay (based on experience and location)
• Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay
• Discounted childcare
• Option to purchase various voluntary insurance plans
• 401(k) options
• Ongoing leadership development and career growth opportunities